The new faces of the playoffs

As area softball teams approach the regional quarterfinals this weekend, there are several new faces in the pitching circle that are making strides for their teams this season. Here are a few young pitchers to watch as the postseason continues.

Caitlin Bartsch, The Woodlands, sophomoreBartsch had big shoes to fill, stepping in for national player of the year Paige McDuffee (injured), but she has answered the call in stellar form. She is 28-4 with a 1.15 ERA and 97 strikeouts in 116 innings.

Kristen Clark, Foster, sophomorePart of Foster’s pitching duo, Clark is 17-1 this season with 163 strikeouts and has helped lead the Falcons to a 29-1 record.

Kennedi Fisher, Brazoswood, freshmanFisher has been a big part of the Bucs’ success, striking out 117 batters in 137 innings. In her first year on varsity, she has a 1.02 ERA and a 16-5 record.

Misty Muniz, Clear Falls, freshmanClear Falls is one of the new teams on the scene, and Muniz is in her first year of varsity play. So far, so good. She has pitched 117 innings, has 11 wins, a 1.01 ERA and 91 strikeouts.

Kayla Ober, Cinco Ranch, sophomoreWith a 20-9 record, Ober is one of the top pitchers in the area. She has 211 strikeouts for the Cougars and is already committed to Texas A&M.

Caitlin Plocheck, Deer Park, sophomoreDeer Park has yet to allow a run in the playoffs, reaching the third round behind Plocheck, who is 10-4 with 109 strikeouts and a 1.53 ERA.

Randi Rupp, Barbers Hill, sophomoreA member of the Eagles basketball team that reached the state semifinals, Rupp is 15-0 with 132 strikeouts and has allowed one run in district play and just two in the playoffs.